European equity close: Stocks hang onto gains after a strong start

Closing changes:

• Stoxx 600 +0.4%
• German DAX +0.4%
• UK FTSE 100 +0.3%
• French CAC +0.5%
• Italy MIB +1.0%
• Spain IBEX +0.8%

European stocks had a great start but faded somewhat. We might have to wait for the ECB to get a directional move.